What are Art Therapies

Art therapies use creative mediums (art, music, dance and drama) that assist in expression. They are a non-verbal approach and used to explore complex emotions and decode the symbols, metaphors and nonverbal messages that may be unspoken but hidden in the psychological and emotional undertones of the artform. Art therapies do not require artistic skill, just a desire to explore yourself and willingness to take part.

The approach

The art therapist encourages you to use a medium in which to help you make sense of things and understand yourself better and help you communicate and express yourself, which might include feelings or experiences you find hard to put into words.

The session

Art therapists work with individuals, couples, and groups in a variety of settings. The therapist encourages you to use whichever art form was chosen to find associations between the creative choices made and your inner life. The therapist will not instruct you on how to do, because it is about your process of exploration and self-discovery of your inner world.

Length of session

Art therapies vary in length, depending on the needs of the individuals. They can be as short-term or long-term, depending on the agreement you make with the therapist. Some art forms may have a duration on the course of treatment offered.

Who benefits from Art therapies?

If you have emotional difficulties, the trauma that is difficult to verbalise, then art therapies are a creative and non-direct way of expressing yourself. People that may have difficulties expressing themselves (learning disabilities, autism, children, behavioural problems, elderly) benefit from using this form of therapy. It helps you to have a greater sense of choice and control of your life while seeking a deeper understanding of yourselves and your personalities.

Find an Art therapist near me

Whatever you’re struggling with, we have a range of art therapists that can help. Speak to one of our team to get help to find a therapist today.

Art therapy

Art therapy includes the use of painting, drawing etc. are the creative method used to help individuals express their emotional landscape, both the seen and unseen world and the inner and outer worlds.

Dance therapy

Dance therapy uses the body, movement and dance as a way of expressing oneself and findings ways of exploring and addressing psychological problems or difficulties. Using body movement and dance to assist the integration of emotional, cognitive, physical, social and spiritual aspects of self.[1]

Drama therapy

Drama therapy uses drama and theatre techniques to facilitate the therapeutic process. It offers a profound reflection on who we are and the roles we play daily and the impact it has on the internal world. You are encouraged to tell your story, and you learn ways to manage and overcome your emotional difficulties and struggles in relationships.

Music therapy

Music therapy uses music to facilitate positive changes in emotional wellbeing and communication through the engagement in a live musical interaction between client and therapist. It can help develop and facilitate communication skills, improve self-confidence and independence, enhance self-awareness and awareness of others, improve concentration and attention skills.[2]

[1] Natural health news. (2017). What is Dance Movement Psychotherapy? [Online]. Available from: https://www.naturalhealthnews.uk/article/what-is-dance-movement-psychotherapy/

[2] BAMT. (2017). What is music therapy? [Online]. Available from: https://www.bamt.org/music-therapy/what-is-music-therapy.html